In-field kits and systems for self-directed theraputic pulley-based muscle rehabiliation methods

ABSTRACT

In-field kits and systems for self-directed therapeutic pulley-based muscle rehabilitation methods. The in-field kit and system comprises ring-shaped fasteners that can be removably coupled to preselected locations on a stationary structure, such as a chain link fence. Pulleys are coupled to the ring-shaped fasteners and an inelastic tether spans the pulleys. The tether has a proximal end portion to which a handle is coupled and a distal end portion to which a weight is coupled. The weight and pulleys provide resistance when a person uses the handle to perform any one of a multiplicity of exercise routines. Use of the invention obviates a need to have a physical therapist present at all times during rehabilitation of an injured user because the invention is a pulley-based system usable at home or at an athletic field.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.61/623,171 filed Apr. 12, 2012.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention generally relates to exercise apparatus and methods andmore particularly relates to in-field kits and systems for self-directedtherapeutic pulley-based muscle rehabilitation methods.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Physical exercise on a regular basis obtains health benefits. Forexample, regular physical exercise has been shown to decrease thelikelihood of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer. Regularphysical exercise may also reduce stress by releasing brain chemicals,such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. In addition, regularphysical exercise reduces the likelihood of obesity and the deleteriouspsychological effects on one's body image due to being overweight.

In addition to the general health benefits of regular physical exercisementioned hereinabove, regular physical exercise is often used torehabilitate specific parts of the body after an injury or surgery. Inthis regard, appropriate physical exercise is used during physicaltherapy after an injury to or surgery on a specific part of the body.More specifically, physical exercise can help prevent scar tissueformation that might otherwise inhibit recovery after an injury orsurgery. Appropriate physical exercise can also reduce joint stiffness,such as in the case of adhesive capsulitis, which is a debilitatingdisease causing limited motion in the shoulder joint where scar tissuehas formed. Additionally, specific exercises promote cartilagelubrication, which helps in decreasing stiffness, increasing lubricationand Range of Motion (ROM).

Moreover, regular physical exercise is often used by athletes whentraining prior to a sporting event to avoid injury during the subsequentsporting event. For example, the hamstring muscle group is a group ofmuscles often over-strained by athletes, such as track runners and thosewho play football, hockey, basketball, soccer, baseball and othersports. The hamstring muscle group is found on the back of the hip andthigh and includes the biceps femonis, semitendinosus andsemimembranosus. Injury to the hamstring muscle group is painful andthere is often a prolonged recovery. However, appropriate and regularphysical exercise targeting the hamstring muscle group when trainingprior to a sporting event can prevent or reduce likelihood of injurythat might otherwise occur during the subsequent sporting event.

Further, regular physical exercise is often used by athletes to buildmuscle bulk, increase strength and enhance athletic performance. Forexample, tennis players find it beneficial to perform the chest crossexercise for conditioning the pectoralis major muscle, the lateral raiseexercise for conditioning the deltoids, the biceps curl exercise forconditioning the biceps, as well as other exercises. As another example,baseball players find it beneficial to perform exercises that conditiontransverse abdominal muscles, rotator cuff and lower back muscles_(—)Body builders and strength trainers also find it beneficial to performregular physical exercise that target specific muscle groups to enhancemuscle bulk and strength.

A gym is often used as a venue for regular physical exercise. However,gym membership is usually required to use the gym's facilities. Gymmemberships can be expensive. For example, gym membership prices for anindividual can average about $2,000 per year. A gym membership for afamily costs even more. Also, gym membership is location-specific. Thatis, gym membership requires the user to use a gym facility at a specificlocation. In addition, weights in a gym are typically heavy and possesslimited adjustment. Further, a particular gym may not possess equipmentnecessary to perform a desired exercise routine. Therefore, cost of gymmemberships may be financially prohibitive for some individuals andfamilies, gym membership limits users to specific locations, weights areheavy and have limited adjustment and equipment in some gym facilitiesmay be inadequate.

In addition, it may be necessary to rehabilitate an accident victim or aprofessional athlete, who was injured because of his or her sport. Inorder to accomplish the rehabilitation, a physical therapist is oftenrequired to supervise physical exercises that facilitate therehabilitation process. The rehabilitation may be on an on-going basisfor an extended period of time and possibly for more than one region ofthe body (e.g., neck and shoulders). Given that rehabilitation may needto be performed over an extended period of time, the physical therapistwill prescribe exercises that the accident victim or athlete shouldperform away from the physical therapist's facility, such as at home orat an athletic field. However, the current state of the art does notappear to provide suitable means for performing physical exercises awayfrom the physical therapist's facility.

Approaches for obtaining the benefits of regular physical exercise notrequiring gym membership have been proposed. In this regard, U.S. Pat.No. 6,949,035 titled “Power Swing Training Bar and issued Sep. 27, 2005in the name of Robert M. Halsworth discloses a power swing trainingdevice that is a tethered, truncated device attached by flexible elasticto a fixed anchor point, or to a pulley and weight system. A swivelattachment is attached to the distal end of the training device, a yokeis attached to the swivel attachment, and an elastic cord is attached tothe yoke at one end and to a fixed point at the other. In a secondembodiment, a cord is hung on a pulley attached to an anchor and aweight is placed at the other end of the cord. However, this patentappears to be directed to specifically developing a baseball batter'smuscles and improving batting strength and velocity and not necessarilyrelated to other sports. In addition, this patent does not appearconcerned with rehabilitating an injured accident victim or injuredathlete.

Another approach is disclosed by U.S. Pat. No, 7,572,212 B2 titled“Portable Weightlifting Apparatus” and issued Aug. 11, 2009 in the nameof Daniel Cassidy, et al. According to the Cassidy, et al. patent, aportable weightlifting device is disclosed having a segmented,separable, tubular housing that can be quickly and easily assembled anddisassembled by a single user. The housing contains a movable weightthat is coupled to a user interface outside of the housing by aninelastic cable that traverses two pulleys. Also, according to theCassidy, et al. patent, one of the pulleys can be adjustably positionedfor allowing a user to perform a multitude of exercises. However, itappears that a user must assemble the segmented housing prior to use anddisassemble the segmented housing after use. Assembling anddisassembling the segmented housing can be inconvenient for a user ofthe equipment, especially for an elderly person. In addition, thispatent does not appear concerned with rehabilitating an injured accidentvictim or injured athlete. Further, it appears that a limitation of theCassidy, et al, device is it only has three increments of weights.Combination of these weights to achieve a specific weight resistancedesired by a user may be limited.

Yet another approach is disclosed by U.S. Patent Application PublicationNo. 2011/0130255 A1 titled “Hit Strong Power Trainer Systems” andpublished Jun. 2, 2011 in the name of Edward Carlton. This publishedpatent application document discloses an exercising apparatus forstrengthening particular variable muscle groups comprising a handlemember including a threaded attacher and an elastic tether with a firstand a second anchor at each of its two ends. The handle member comprisesan elongated tubular plastic shaft with a length of twelve inches orless and has a proximal end comprising a knob and a distal end. Theattacher comprises a ferrous eye hook and is fixed to the distal end ofthe handle member. The first anchor is fixed to the first end of theelastic tether and is removably clip-connected to the threaded attacherso as to connect the elastic tether to the handle member. The secondanchor is fixed to the second end of the elastic tether and is removablyclip-connected to a stationary vertical structure comprising a fence.However, this published patent document does not appear to disclose useof pulleys that can provide consistent resistance. Also, this deviceappears inconvenient to use because it requires substantial space tomount the device. In addition, the lowest weight achievable appears tobe one pound. Moreover, the elastic tether that is connected to thehandle member might prove to be a relatively weak link. In addition,this published patent application document does not appear concernedwith rehabilitating an injured accident victim or injured athlete.

Although the prior art approaches recited hereinabove may disclose apower swing training device, a portable weightlifting device, and anexercising apparatus for strengthening particular variable musclegroups, the prior art recited hereinabove do not appear to disclose theinvention described and claimed hereinbelow.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention addresses the, shortcomings of the prior artapproaches mentioned hereinabove by providing in-field kits and systemsfor self-directed therapeutic pulley-based muscle rehabilitationmethods. Use of the present invention promotes wellness, prevention ofinjury, rehabilitation and performance optimization.

The in-field kits and systems for self-directed therapeutic pulley-basedmuscle rehabilitation methods comprises annular ring-shaped fastenersthat can be attached to preselected locations on a stationary structure,such as a chain link fence that includes a wire mesh. In one embodiment,the ring-shaped fastener is a split first O-ring that defines a gap atthe split in the first O-ring. At least one of the wires belonging tothe wire mesh is passed through the gap, so that the wire is disposedwithin an open interior space defined by the first O-ring. The firstO-ring includes an integrally connected screw-threaded latch near thelocation of the gap for opening and closing the gap. The screw-threadedlatch is manually unthreaded to open the gap, so that the wire isreceived through the gap and into the open interior space defined by thefirst O-ring. The screw-threaded latch is manually threaded also toclose the gap, so that the wire is enclosed, confined or captured withinthe open interior space defined by the first O-ring. In this manner, thefirst O-ring is coupled to the fence when the wire is captured withinthe open interior space defined by the first O-ring. In addition, afirst pulley includes a ribbon or cord. The ribbon or cord is used totie the first pulley to the first O-ring, so that the first pulley iscoupled to the first O-ring. More specifically, the user can extend theribbon or cord through the open interior space defined by the firstO-ring, through an eyelet of an attachment belonging to the pulley andthen tie the ribbon or cord into a knot. In this manner, the firstpulley is coupled to the first O-ring. A second O-ring and second pulleyare coupled to the fence in a similar manner.

In addition to O-rings and pulleys, in-field kits and systems forself-directed therapeutic pulley-based muscle rehabilitation methodsalso includes a tether, such as in the form of a rope, cord or the likefor reasons provided presently. The tether is preferably an inelastictether for reasons provided hereinbelow. However, the tether may be anelastic tether, if desired. In this regard, the user extends the tetherover each of the pulleys, so that the tether traverses or spans all ofthe pulleys. The tether has a proximal end portion to which a handle iscoupled. The handle is an elongate member, such as a truncated baseballbat, truncated tennis racquet handle, truncated hockey stick, truncatedgolf club or the like. The handle may also be in the form of a baseball.The tether also has a distal end portion to which a weight is coupled.The weight may comprise a weight bag containing dense material (e.g.,one or more metal objects) or aggregate (e.g., sand, gravel and/orcrushed stones). The weight may alternatively comprise incremental metalweights of a type familiar to body builders and strength trainers.

In use, the plurality of O-rings is coupled to the fence in the mannerprovided hereinabove. The user grasps the handle and moves the handle inorder to pull on the tether that is coupled to the handle. The pullingaction performed by the user places the tether, which spans theplurality of pulleys, in tension in order to lift the weight. Thepulleys and the weight provide constant resistance to the user'smovements and the resistance provides physical exercise for the user.Thus, each O-ring and pulley is configured to allow the plurality ofO-rings and associated pulleys to be located at virtually any locationon the fence in order to obtain a particularized exercise routine.

The invention provides an in-field kit and system for self-directedtherapeutic pulley-based muscle rehabilitation methods that areversatile and convenient to use. In this regard, the in-field kit andsystem for self-directed therapeutic pulley-based muscle rehabilitationmethods are configured to be quickly deployed on and removed from astationary structure, such as a chain link fence. There may be aplurality of O-rings and pulleys coupled to the fence, each O-ring andpulley combination being locatable at any desired location on the fence.Thus, the O-ring and pulley combination can easily vary in number andlocation to achieve a particularized exercise routine, such asstretching of hamstring, deltoid and bicep muscle groups. In addition,use of the in-field kit and system does not require costly membership ina gym.

Moreover, the present invention is not limited to use with a chain linkfence. Virtually any similar stationary structure is useable with theinvention. For example, the present invention allows exercises to beperformed using doors. In the case of doors, a specialized bracket isincluded that is adapted to removably connect to an edge of the door.The pulley, with or without the O-ring, is suspended from the bracket.

Use of the invention enables an athlete to make a transition from aclinic rehabilitation environment to an indoor or in-field environmentfor continuing his or her rehabilitation exercise routine. Use of theinvention also allows an accident victim to make a rehabilitationtransition from a clinical setting to an indoor (e.g., home) setting. Inaddition, use of the invention obviates the need to have a physicaltherapist present at all times during rehabilitation. The invention is apulley-based system that enables use of the invention at home or at anathletic field.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided anin-field kit for self-directed therapeutic pulley-based musclerehabilitation, comprising: a plurality of ring-shaped fasteners adaptedto be coupled to respective ones of a plurality of preselected locationson a stationary structure; a plurality of pulleys adapted to be coupledto respective ones of the plurality of ring-shaped fasteners; a tetheradapted to engage the pulleys, the tether having a proximal end portionand a distal end portion; and a handle adapted to be coupled to theproximal end portion of the tether for placing the tether in tension, sothat an injured muscle group of a user is rehabilitated as the tether isplaced in tension.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is providedan in-field kit for self-directed therapeutic pulley-based musclerehabilitation, comprising: a plurality of O-ring clips adapted to beconnected to respective ones of a plurality of preselected locations ona stationary structure, each of the plurality of O-ring clips beingopenable and closeable for selectively positioning each of the pluralityof O-ring clips on the stationary structure; a plurality of pulleysadapted to be connected to respective ones of the plurality of O-ringclips; a flexible tether adapted to slidably engage the plurality ofpulleys, the tether having a proximal end portion and a distal endportion, the distal end portion being adapted to connect to a weight;and a handle adapted to be connected to the proximal end portion of thetether for placing the tether in tension, so that an injured musclegroup of a user is rehabilitated as the tether is placed in tension.

According to yet another aspect of the present invention there isprovided an in-field kit for self-directed therapeutic pulley-basedmuscle rehabilitation, comprising: a plurality of split O-ring clipsdefining a gap therein adapted to be opened and closed for connectingeach of the plurality of O-ring clips to respective ones of a pluralityof preselected locations on a stationary structure, each of theplurality of O-ring clips including a latch mechanism associated withthe gap for opening and closing the gap; a plurality of friction-freepulleys adapted to be connected to respective ones of the plurality ofO-ring clips; a flexible tether adapted to slidably engageably span theplurality of pulleys, the tether having a proximal end portion and adistal end portion; a handle adapted to be connected to the proximal endportion of the tether, the handle including a hook member for engagingthe proximal end portion of the tether, the handle being adapted forplacing the tether in tension, so that an injured muscle group of a useris rehabilitated as the tether is placed in tension; and a tote bagsized to contain the plurality of O-ring clips, the plurality ofpulleys, the tether and the handle.

According to still another aspect of the present invention there isprovided an in-field kit system for self-directed therapeuticpulley-based muscle rehabilitation, comprising: a plurality ofring-shaped fasteners adapted to be coupled to respective ones of aplurality of preselected locations on a stationary structure; aplurality of pulleys adapted to be coupled to respective ones of theplurality of ring-shaped fasteners; a tether adapted to engage thepulleys, the tether having a proximal end portion and a distal endportion; and a handle adapted to be coupled to the proximal end portionof the tether for placing the tether in tension, so that an injuredmuscle group of a user is rehabilitated as the tether is placed intension.

According to an additional aspect of the present invention there isprovided a method of assembling an in-field kit for self-directedtherapeutic pulley-based muscle rehabilitation, comprising: providing aplurality of ring-shaped fasteners adapted to be coupled to respectiveones of a plurality of preselected locations on a stationary structure;providing a plurality of pulleys adapted to be coupled to respectiveones of the plurality of ring-shaped fasteners; providing a tetheradapted to engage the pulleys, the tether having a proximal end portionand a distal end portion; and providing a handle adapted to be coupledto the proximal end portion of the tether for placing the tether intension, so that an injured muscle group of a user is rehabilitated asthe tether is placed in tension.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is providedan in-field kit for self-directed therapeutic pulley-based musclerehabilitation, comprising: a bracket adapted to be mounted on a door; apulley adapted to be coupled to the bracket; a tether adapted to engagethe pulley, the tether having a proximal end portion and a distal endportion; and a handle adapted to be coupled to the proximal end portionof the tether for placing the tether in tension, so that an injuredmuscle group of a user is rehabilitated as the tether is placed intension.

A feature of the present invention is the provision of a plurality ofring-shaped fasteners adapted to be coupled to respective ones of aplurality of preselected locations on a stationary structure.

Another feature of the present invention is the provision of a pluralityof tensioning supports adapted to be coupled to respective ones of theplurality of ring-shaped fasteners.

An additional feature of the present invention is the provision of atether spanning the tensioning supports, the tether having a proximalend portion connectable to a handle and a distal end portion connectableto a weight.

Yet another feature of the present invention is the provision of a latchmechanism integrally connected to the ring-shaped fastener, the latchmechanism being either a screw-threaded latch, a slidable latch or athreaded coupler latch.

A further feature of the present invention is the provision of a doorbracket adapted to couple the pulleys, handle and tether combination toa door.

In addition to the foregoing, various other method and/or device aspectsand features are set forth and described in the teachings, such as text(e.g., claims and/or detailed description) and/or drawings of thepresent invention.

The foregoing is a summary and thus may contain simplifications,generalizations, inclusions, and/or omissions of detail. Consequently,those skilled in the art will appreciate that the summary isillustrative only and is not intended to be in any way limiting. Inaddition to the illustrative aspects, embodiments, and featuresdescribed hereinabove, further aspects, embodiments, and features willbecome apparent by reference to the drawings and the following detaileddescription.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be more fully understood by reference to the detaileddescription in conjunction with the following figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a view in perspective showing a first embodiment in-field kitand system for self-directed therapeutic pulley-based musclerehabilitation methods in operative condition to be used by a user, thefirst embodiment in-field kit and system employing a weight bag;

FIG. 2 is a view in perspective showing the first embodiment in-fieldkit and system in operative condition to be used by the user, the firstembodiment in-field kit and system employing a plurality of incrementalweights;

FIG. 3 is a view in perspective showing the first embodiment in-fieldkit and system being used by the user, the user performing a firstexercise routine;

FIG. 4 is a view in perspective showing the first embodiment in-fieldkit and system being used by the user, the user performing a secondexercise routine;

FIG. 5 is a view in perspective showing the first embodiment in-fieldkit and system being used by the user, the user performing a thirdexercise routine;

FIG. 6 is a view in perspective showing a first embodiment ring-shapedfastener and integrally connected pulley, the first embodimentring-shaped fastener being shown in an open position prior to the firstembodiment ring-shaped fastener and integrally connected pulley beingcoupled to a wire mesh belonging to a chain link fence;

FIG. 7 is a view in perspective showing the first embodiment ring-shapedfastener and integrally connected pulley, the first embodimentring-shaped fastener being shown in a closed position after the firstembodiment ring-shaped fastener and integrally connected pulley arecoupled to the wire mesh belonging to the chain link fence;

FIG. 8 is a view in elevation showing the first embodiment ring-shapedfastener in an open position prior to being coupled to the wire meshbelonging to the chain link fence;

FIG. 9 is a view in elevation showing the first embodiment ring-shapedfastener and a wire belonging to the wire mesh of the chain link fence,the wire extending through an open interior space defined by the firstembodiment ring-shaped fastener after the first embodiment ring-shapedfastener is coupled to the chain link fence, this view also showing ascrew-threaded latch substantially closing the gap;

FIG. 10 is a view in partial vertical section showing a secondembodiment ring-shaped fastener, the second embodiment ring-shapedfastener comprising a slidable latch including a spring-biased gateshown in an open position prior to being coupled to the wire meshbelonging to the chain link fence;

FIG. 11 is a view in partial vertical section showing the secondembodiment ring-shaped fastener and the wire belonging to the wire meshof the chain link fence, the wire extending through an open interiorspace defined by the second embodiment ring-shaped fastener, the secondembodiment ring-shaped fastener comprising the slidable latch includingthe spring-biased gate shown in a closed position after the secondembodiment ring-shaped fastener is coupled to the chain link fence;

FIG. 12 is a view in elevation showing the second embodiment ring-shapedfastener defining an optional arcuate-shaped slot formed through a wallthereof for accommodating an optional movable tab for easier opening andclosing of the second embodiment ring-shaped fastener;

FIG. 12A is a view in elevation showing a third embodiment ring-shapedfastener including a rotatable threaded attachment member for openingand closing the third embodiment ring-shaped fastener;

FIG. 126 is a view in elevation showing a fourth embodiment ring-shapedfastener including a resilient gate member for opening and closing thefourth embodiment ring-shaped fastener;

FIG. 13 is a view in elevation showing a first embodiment handleincluding an integrally connected hook and a tether portion tied in aknot about the hook;

FIG. 14 is a view in elevation showing a second embodiment handleincluding an integrally connected hook and the tether portion tied in aknot about the hook;

FIG, 15 is a view in elevation showing a third embodiment handleincluding an integrally connected hook and the tether portion tied in aknot about the hook;

FIG. 16 is a view in elevation showing a fourth embodiment handleincluding an integrally connected hook and the tether portion tied in aknot about the hook;

FIG. 17 is a view in elevation showing a fifth embodiment handleincluding an integrally connected yoke and the tether portion tied in aknot about the yoke;

FIG. 18 is a view taken along section line 18-18 of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a view in elevation showing a sixth embodiment handleincluding an integrally connected hook and the tether portion tied in aknot about the hook;

FIG. 19A is a view in elevation showing a seventh embodiment handleincluding an integrally connected hook and the tether portion tied in aknot about the hook;

FIG. 19B is a view in elevation showing an eighth embodiment handleincluding an integrally connected hook and the tether portion tied in aknot about the hook;

FIG. 20 is a view in perspective showing a container in the form of atote bag for containing and carrying the ring-shaped fasteners, pulleys,tether, weight bag and handle;

FIG. 21 is view in perspective showing a second embodiment exercise kitand system deployed on a door, the second embodiment exercise kit andsystem including a bracket assembly removably mounted on the door;

FIG. 21A is a view in elevation of an alternative bracket assemblyadapted to be removably mountable on the door;

FIG. 21B is a plan view of a tensioner for adjustably tensioning atether;

FIG. 21C is a view taken along section line 21C-21C of FIG. 21B; and

FIG, 22 is a flowchart showing an illustrative method of assembling anin-field kit and system for self-directed therapeutic pulley-basedmuscle rehabilitation methods.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the following detailed description, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings, which form a part hereof. In the drawings,similar symbols typically identify similar components, unless contextdictates otherwise. The illustrative embodiments described in thedetailed description, drawings, and claims are not meant to be limiting.Other embodiments may be utilized, and other changes may be made,without departing from either the spirit or scope of the invention.

In addition, the present patent specification uses formal outlineheadings for clarity of presentation. However, it is to be understoodthat the outline headings are for presentation purposes, and thatdifferent types of subject matter may be discussed throughout theapplication (e.g., device(s)/structure(s) may be described underprocess(es)/operations heading(s) and/or process (es)/operations may bediscussed under structure(s)/process(es) headings; and/or descriptionsof single topics may span two or more topic headings). Hence, the use ofthe formal outline headings is not intended to be in any way limiting.

Therefore, with reference to FIG. 1, there is shown a first embodimentin-field kit and system for self-directed therapeutic pulley-basedmuscle rehabilitation methods, generally referred to as 10, in operativecondition for use by a user 20. In this regard, first embodimentexercise kit and system 10 (hereinafter referred to as “first embodimentkit 10”) is beneficially used by user 20 to perform a plurality ofexercise routines that selectively exercise desired muscle groups, suchas the hamstring, deltoid, bicep and abdominal muscle groups.

It will be appreciated that first embodiment kit 10 is particularlyuseful for allowing an accident victim or a professional athlete, whowas injured because of his or her sport, to rehabilitate the injury inan on-going, self-directed process without need of a physical therapistbeing present to direct the process. However, the accident victim orinjured professional athlete will begin rehabilitation first byworking-out under the direction of the physical therapist at thefacility of the physical therapist. While under the direction of thephysical therapist, the accident victim or injured professional athletewill acquire an understanding from the physical therapist as to what isrequired to rehabilitate injured muscles and ligaments, learn whatexercises to use for rehabilitating the injured muscles and ligamentsand also learn how to use first embodiment kit 10 for regainingstrength, flexibility and other physical attributes. After working-outunder the direction of the physical therapist for a necessary period oftime (e.g., two weeks, four weeks or one month), the physical therapistwill instruct the accident victim or professional athlete to performpredetermined exercises “at home” (i.e., away from the physicaltherapist's facility) for accomplishing the desired rehabilitation usingfirst embodiment kit 10. In the case of the athlete, the exercises maybe performed at home or at an athletic field (i.e., “in-field”exercising).

After the necessary period of time allotted for at-home or in-fieldexercising, the accident victim or professional athlete returns to thephysical therapist for evaluation. If necessary, the physical therapistmay modify the prescribed at-home or in-field treatment plan. Therefore,use of first embodiment kit 10 obviates the need to have a physicaltherapist present at all times during rehabilitation. In addition, asdescribed in detail hereinbelow, first embodiment kit 10 is apulley-based system that enables use of first embodiment kit 10 at homeor in-field.

Referring again to FIG. 1, and as described in more detail hereinbelow,first embodiment kit 10 is adapted to be coupled to a stationarystructure, such as a chain link fence, generally referred to as 30.Fence 30 is securely anchored in soil 35, such as by a footing 37, sothat fence 30 is stationary. Fence 30, which forms no part of thepresent invention, includes a vertically oriented corner post or endpost 40 having an upper end portion 50 and a lower end portion 60, thelower end portion 60 thereof being embedded in soil 35 by means offooting 37. A lower rail 70 is connected to and laterally extends fromlower end portion 60 and includes a plurality of spaced-apart andaligned lower tension wire holders 80. The lower tension wire holders 80are adapted to securely retain a lower tension wire 90 that extendsparallel to and above lower rail 70 for reasons disclosed momentarily.In addition, an upper rail 100 is connected to and laterally extendsfrom upper end portion 50 and includes a plurality of spaced-apart andaligned upper tension wire holders 110. The upper tension wire holders110 are adapted to securely retain an upper tension wire 120 thatextends parallel to and below upper rail 100 for reasons disclosedmomentarily. In this manner, upper rail 100 and upper tension wire 120run parallel to lower rail 70 and lower tension wire 90. A chain linkmesh, generally referred to as 130, is connected to lower tension wire90 and upper tension wire 120, so that chain link mesh 130 is secured intension therebetween. Chain link mesh 130 includes a multiplicity ofwires 140, which may be arranged in a criss-cross pattern, as shown.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, and as described in detail hereinbelow,first embodiment kit 10 comprises a plurality of first embodimentring-shaped fasteners, such as a first O-ring clip 150 adapted to becoupled to a first preselected location on chain link mesh 130 and asecond O-ring clip 160 adapted to be coupled to a second preselectedlocation on chain link mesh 130. As disclosed in detail hereinbelow,applicant's O-ring clips 150/160 are “screw-type” O-ring clips and areopenable and closeable for individually positioning and coupling O-ringclips 150/160 at any desired location on chain link mesh 130.

Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, a first tensioning support, such as asubstantially friction-free first pulley 170, is adapted to be coupledto first O-ring clip 150 and a second tensioning support, such as asubstantially friction-free second pulley 180, is adapted to be coupledto second O-ring clip 160. Pulleys 170/180 may each be a commerciallyavailable pulley, such as an “ESP Single Swivel Pulley With Becket”ball-bearing type pulley which may be available from Harken IndustrialCompany, Incorporated located in Pewaukee, Wis., U.S.A. A smooth, highquality ball bearing construction for pulleys 170/180 offers a largerange of resistance that is particularly useful for exercising thecervical spine (i.e., neck) and lumbar spine (i.e., lower back). Thefriction-free feature of pulleys 170/180, which is due to the ballbearing construction, allows for a smooth, constant resistancethroughout the range of motion performed by user 20.

Referring yet again to FIGS. 1 and 2, a compliant or flexible tether190, such as a flexible rope or cord, slidably engageably spans bothpulleys 170/180 for reasons disclosed hereinbelow. Tether 190 is made ofa synthetic material, such as polyethylene, aramid, carbon fiber or thepolymer nylon. Tether 190 may be elastic, if desired, with a suitableelastic modulus for achieving a desired resistance to being pulled ortensioned. The elastic nature of tether 190 gradually increasesresistance being experienced by user 20. Such a gradual increase inresistance may be preferred by some users. Preferably, however, tether190 is substantially inelastic or non-recoil to avoid tether 190snapping-back and hitting user 20 should tether 190 inadvertently breakwhile being pulled. Tether 190 is also preferably substantiallyinelastic when performing the exercises to avoid any rebound effect onmuscles, tendons and ligaments. Use of non-recoil or inelastic tether190 obtains other benefits, as well. In this regard, such a non-recoilor inelastic tether 190 facilitates rehabilitation, sports training,injury prevention and improves physical performance. More specifically,when using non-recoil or inelastic tether 190, resistance is constantthroughout range of motion from a shortened muscle position to alengthened muscle position. Constant resistance, in turn, allows forspecific dosage of exercises that obtains specific functional qualities,such as endurance, circulation, coordination and strength. Constantresistance also allows control of the range of motion and managingdifferent types of exercises, such as concentric, isometric andeccentric exercises.

Still referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, first embodiment kit 10, which can beconveniently used in a home environment as described hereinbelow, isefficient and effective because the distance from pulleys 170/180 andthe exercising components (e.g., weights, bats, and balls) is fixed bythe length of inelastic tether 190. The inelastic tether 190, unlike anelastic tether, which is used by most, if not all therapists, is fixedin length, and will not vary in length when repeatedly used or whensubjected to heat and cold in an outdoor environment. Thus, a therapistneed not be present to verify whether prescribed exercises are performedwith a resulting expected outcome. In this regard, it is difficult forelastic tethers to achieve expected outcomes because of theabove-identified considerations associated with elastic tethers. Whenusing an elastic tether, where the resistance changes with increasedlength of the elastic tether, one must take into consideration the ageof the elastic tether and the possibility of the elastic tether“drying-up” (i.e., becoming stiff or brittle), decreased resistancecapability and difficulty gauging progress because it is difficult tochange and calculate a suitable weight/resistance. When using an elastictether, resistance increases as muscle fibers move into an inefficientrange of motion, thereby increasing risk of injury or leading topathology if not closely monitored by a therapist.

Referring yet again to FIGS. 1 and 2, tether 190 has a proximal endportion 200 and a distal end portion 210. An elongate first embodimentdowel or handle 220, which is adapted to be connected to proximal endportion 210, includes a hook member 230 for engaging proximal endportion 210 of tether 190. Distal end portion 210 of tether 190 isadapted to be connected to a first embodiment weight, such as a weightbag 240. The weight bag 240 contains a dense material (e.g., one or moremetal objects) or aggregate (e.g., sand, gravel and/or crushed stones).Alternatively, distal end portion 210 of tether 190 may be adapted to beconnected to a second embodiment weight, such as a plurality ofincremental weights 250 stacked one upon the other and of a typefamiliar to body builders and strength trainers. In either case of aweight bag 240 or incremental weights 250, the weights need not be heavyand can be readily adjusted to suit the individual strength capabilitiesof user 20.

In FIGS. 3, 4 and 5, user 20 is shown performing a first exerciseroutine, a second exercise routine and a third exercise routine,respectively. In the first exercise routine, user 20 has coupled O-ringclips 150/160 and associated pulleys 170/180 at preselected locations onchain link mesh 130. Tether 190 has been placed by user 20 over pulleys170/180, such that tether 190 spans pulleys 170/180. First embodimenthandle 220 is connected to proximal end portion 200 of tether 190 andincremental weights 250 are removably connected to distal end portion210 of tether 190. User 20 moves first embodiment handle 220 in adesired manner and O-ring clips 150/160 in combination with pulleys170/180, incremental weights 250 and tether 190 provide resistance touser's 20 movement of first embodiment handle 220. In the first exerciseroutine, user 20 is shown with an arm 255 moving first embodiment handle220 in a downward arc from user's 20 abdominal region in order toexercise user's 20 forearm and bicep muscle groups. Exercising andstrengthening of the forearm and bicep muscle groups may enhanceperformance in athletic activities, such as tennis and baseball. In thesecond exercise routine, O-ring clips 150/160 and associated pulleys170/180 are located at other preselected locations on chain link mesh130 for exercising some of the same muscle groups or completelydifferent muscle groups. In this second exercise routine, both arms 255are outwardly horizontally extended and both hands are shown graspingfirst embodiment handle 220. User 20 then moves first embodiment handle220 either in an upward arc, laterally, and/or vertically in order toexercise user's 20 biceps and pectoral muscle groups. Exercising andstrengthening of the bicep and pectoral muscle groups may enhanceperformance in athletic activities, such as baseball and hockey. In thethird exercise routine, O-ring clips 150/160 and associated pulleys170/180 are located at yet other preselected locations on chain linkmesh 130 for exercising some of the same muscle groups or completelydifferent muscle groups. In this third exercise routine, both arms 255are outwardly horizontally extended to a side of user 20 and both handsare shown grasping first embodiment handle 220. User 20 then moves firstembodiment handle 220 in a horizontal arc from side-to-side in order toexercise user's 20 bicep, pectoral, abdominal, hamstring and back musclegroups. Exercising and strengthening of the bicep, pectoral, abdominal,hamstring and back muscle groups may enhance performance in athleticactivities, such as tennis, baseball, hockey and golf. Thus, based onapplicant's teachings, it should be apparent to a person of ordinaryskill in the art of exercise equipment design that placement of O-ringclips 150/160 and associated pulleys 170/180 at various preselectedlocations on chain link mesh 130 can obtain any one of a multiplicity ofexercise routines in order to benefit specific muscle groups. The first,second and third exercise routines mentioned hereinabove are butexamples of the multiplicity of possible exercise routines achievable byusing first embodiment kit 10 and should not be construed as limiting.In addition to benefiting specific muscle groups, use of firstembodiment kit 10 for purposes of regular physical exercise may improveoverall physical health, including weight control.

Referring to FIGS. 6, 7, 8 and 9, the previously mentioned firstembodiment ring-shaped fasteners comprising O-ring clips 150/160 willnow be described in detail. For reasons of brevity, the descriptionhereinbelow is directed to first O-ring clip 150, it being understoodthat the description hereinbelow applies to identical second O-ring clip160, as well. In this regard, first O-ring clip 150 comprises an annularwall 260 having an outer surface 270 and an inner surface 280. The innersurface 280 defines an open interior space 290 within first O-ring clip150. The first O-ring clip 150 also comprises an integrally connectedfirst embodiment “screw-type” or “screw-threaded” latch mechanism,generally referred to as 295. First embodiment latch mechanism 295comprises a pair of oppositely disposed parallel ledges 300 a and 300 boutwardly projecting from outer surface 270. Ledges 300 a and 300 bdefine an opening, split, channel or gap 310 between ledges 300 a and300 b Gap 310 extends through wall 260 such that gap 310 is incommunication with open interior space 290. Gap 310 facilitates couplingof first O-ring clip 150 to wire 140 that belongs to chain link mesh130. More specifically, gap 310 is sized to receive wire 140therethrough, which wire 140 passes through gap 310 and into openinterior space 290. A pair of aligned internally threaded bores 315 aand 315 b transversely extend through ledges 300 a and 300 b,respectively. An externally threaded screw 320 is threadably received ininternally threaded bores 310 a and 310 b. A wing nut 330 is threadablyreceived onto an end portion of screw 320 and threaded thereon untilwing nut 330 engages an underside surface of ledge 300 b. In thismanner, gap 310 is closed to block escape of wire 140 from open interiorspace 290. The process recited hereinabove is performed in reverse toremove first O-ring clip 150 from wire 140.

Referring again to FIGS. 6, 7, 8 and 9, first pulley 170 is adapted tobe connected to first O-ring dip 150. For reasons of brevity, thedescription hereinafter is directed to connection of first pulley 170 tofirst O-ring clip 150. It being understood that the descriptionhereinafter applies to an identical connection of second pulley 180 tosecond O-ring clip 160, as well. As previously mentioned, pulley 170 maybe a commercially available pulley, such as the “ESP Single SwivelPulley With Becker type pulley which may be available from HarkenIndustrial Company, Incorporated. Alternatively, however, pulley 170 maybe of a different type according to applicant's design, which isdescribed immediately hereinafter. In this regard, first pulley 170comprises an axle 340 on which a grooved wheel 350 is rotatably mounted.Wheel 350 defines a grooved or recessed surface 360 extending aroundwheel 350. Previously mentioned tether 190 slidably engages recessedsurface 360 as tether 190 spans first pulley 170. A pulley arm 370interconnects axle 340 to a coupling 380 defining an eyelet 390therethrough. A connector 400 connects coupling 380 to first O-ring 150and, thus, connects first pulley 170 to first O-ring 150. Connector 400may be a rope, ribbon or cord that extends through eyelet 390 and openinterior space 290 and that is tied into a knot 405 for securelyconnecting first pulley 170 to first O-ring 150. Alternatively,connector 400 may be ring-shaped fastener as described hereinbelow or acommercially available “BLACK DIAMOND OVAL carabiner clip which may beavailable from REI, Incorporated located in Summer, Wash., U.S.A.

As best seen in FIGS. 10 and 11, there is shown a second embodimentring-shaped fastener, generally referred to as 410. Second embodimentring-shaped fastener 410 comprises a “gate-type” O-ring clip 420 and isdistinguishable from applicant's previously mentioned “screw-type”O-ring clips 150/160, More specifically, gate-type O-ring clip 420comprises an annular wall 430 having an outer surface 440 and an innersurface 450. The inner surface 450 defines an open interior space 460within gate-type O-ring clip 420. Wall 430 defines an entrance 470therethrough that is in communication with open interior space 460 forreasons made apparent presently. Gate-type O-ring clip 420 defines anarcuate-shaped first chamber 480 therein having a closed rear portion490 and an open front portion 500. Disposed in rear portion 490 of firstchamber 480 is a resilient biasing member, such as a coiled spring 510,for purposes disclosed momentarily. Spring 510 engages an arcuate-shapedplug or gate 520 that is matingly slidably disposed in first chamber 480and that extends from entrance 470 to spring 510, such that spring 510engages gate 520. Gate-type O-ring clip 420 also defines anarcuate-shaped second chamber 530 therein having a closed rear portion540 and an open front portion 550. Open front portion 500 of firstchamber 480 and open front portion 550 of second chamber 530 are alignedone to another and are in communication with entrance 470. Entrance 470facilitates coupling of gate-type O-ring clip 420 to wire 140 thatbelongs to chain link mesh 130. In this regard, entrance 470 is sized toreceive wire 140 therethrough, which wire 140 passes through entrance470 and into open interior space 460. More specifically, gate 520 isgrasped by user 20 and manually moved in first chamber 480 in adirection of an arrow 555 toward rear portion 490 of first chamber 480.As gate 520 moves in direction of arrow 555, entrance 470 opens becauseentrance 470 is no longer blocked by gate 520. Also, as gate 520 movesin direction of arrow 555, spring 510 compresses. Gate-type O-ring clip420 is thereafter coupled to wire 140 belonging to chain link mesh 130in the manner described presently. In this regard, wire 140 is passedthrough entrance 470 to be received into open interior space 460. Atthis point, gate 520 is manually released by user 20, so that gate 520travels in a direction of an arrow 557 to be received into secondchamber 530. Travel of gate 520 in direction of arrow 557 is caused byexpansion of spring 510 which expansion is, in turn, caused by user's 20manual release of gate 520. In other words, manual release of gate 520causes spring 510 to be released from spring's 510 compressed state,such that spring 510 expands to move gate 520. In this manner, entrance470 is closed to block escape of wire 140 from open interior space 460,so that gate-type O-ring clip 420 is removably coupled to wire 140 thatbelong to chain link mesh 130. The process recited hereinabove isperformed in reverse to remove gate-type O-ring clip 420 from wire 140.

As best seen in FIG. 12, wall 430 of gate-type O-ring clip 420 mayoptionally define an arcuate-shaped slot 560 therein aligned with andadjacent to gate 520. An optional tab 570 that is integrally connectedto gate 520 outwardly projects from gate 520 and extends through slot560. Tab 570 may be grasped by user 20 and moved in the direction ofpreviously mentioned arrow 555 for conveniently moving gate 520 towardrear portion 490 of first chamber 480. As tab 570 is moved in thedirection of arrow 555, entrance 470 is opened. Conversely, when tab 570is released, previously mentioned spring 510 expands to move gate 520,so that entrance 470 is closed by gate 520.

Referring to FIG. 12A, there is shown a third embodiment ring-shapedfastener, generally referred to as 572. Third embodiment ring-shapedfastener 572 comprises a threaded “coupler latch” O-ring clip 574 ahaving a generally annular wall 574 b of circular transversecross-section. Wall 574 b has an outer surface 574 c and an innersurface 574 d. The inner surface 574 d defines an open interior space574 e within gate-type O-ring clip 574 a. Wall 574 b defines an entranceor gap 574 f therethrough that is in communication with open interiorspace 574 e for reasons made apparent presently. Entrance 574 ffacilitates coupling of gate-type O-ring clip 572 to wire 140 thatbelongs to chain link mesh 130. In this regard, entrance 574 f is sizedto receive wire 140 therethrough, which wire 140 passes through entrance574 f and into open interior space 574 e when gate-type O-ring clip 574a is opened. Due to presence of entrance 574 f, wall 574 b has a firstend portion 574 g that is externally threaded and a second end portion574 h that is also externally threaded. An adjustable, generallycylindrical coupler member 574 i is adapted to threadably engage firstend portion 574 g and second end portion 574 h. For this purpose,coupler member 574 i defines a central, threaded internal bore 574 jtherethrough for threadably engaging the external threads of first endportion 574 g and second end portion 574 h. Coupler member 574 i mayalso have a textured external surface 574 k for allowing user 20 toeasily grip and turn coupler member 574 i, Turning coupler member 574 i,such as in the direction of an arrow 574 l, will cause coupler member574 i to threadably advance along first end portion 574 g and threadablyengage second end portion 574 h, thereby closing entrance 574 f. Turningcoupler member 574 i, such as in the direction of an arrow 574 m, willcause coupler member 574 i to threadably retreat along first end portion574 g and threadably disengage second end portion 574 h, thereby openingentrance 574 f. Thus, manipulation of coupler member 574 l allows wire140 to be received through entrance 574 f, when entrance 574 f isopened, and captured within interior space 574 e when entrance 674 f isclosed. Manipulation of coupler member 574 l also allows wire 140 to bereceived through entrance 574 f and released from interior space 574 e.In this manner, configuration of coupler member 574 i allows couplermember 574 i to be conveniently releasably attached to fence 30.

Referring to FIG. 12B, there is shown a fourth embodiment ring-shapedfastener, generally referred to as 576. Fourth embodiment ring-shapedfastener 576 comprises a generally annular wall 578 a. Wall 578 a has anouter surface 578 b and an inner surface 578 c. The inner surface 578 cdefines an open interior space 578 d within ring-shaped fastener 576.Wall 578 a defines an entrance or gap 578 e therethrough that is incommunication with open interior space 578 d for reasons made apparentpresently. Entrance 578 e facilitates coupling of ring-shaped fastener576 to wire 140 that belongs to chain link mesh 130. In this regard,entrance 578 e is sized to receive wire 140 therethrough, which wire 140passes through entrance 578 e and into open interior space 578 d whenring-shaped fastener 576 is opened. Entrance 578 e of ring-shapedfastener 576 is opened and closed by means of a resilient gate member578 f spanning entrance 578 a and that is bendable about a pin 578 gthat couples gate member 578 f to wall 578 a. Gate member 578 f iscapable of being manually bent to a bent state 578 h generally in thedirection of an arrow 578 i, as shown, for opening entrance 578 e. Gatemember 578 f will return to its original unbent state, in the directionof an arrow 578 j, upon manual release thereby closing entrance 578 e. Atype of fastener suitable for this purpose can be a commerciallyavailable “TMS-CB156” carbiner clip that may be available from QinfengElectric Machinery Company, Ltd. located in Fuzhou City, FujianProvince, China (Mainland).

Referring to FIG, 13, previously mentioned first embodiment handle 220comprises a generally cylindrical and elongate shaft 580 having aproximal end portion 590 and a distal end portion 600. Attached todistal end portion 600 is previously mentioned hook member 230. The hookmember 230 defines an eyelet 630 through which proximal end portion 200of tether 190 passes. After being passed through eyelet 630, proximalend portion 200 is tied by user 20 into a knot 615 for securing tether190 to hook member 230 and therefore to shaft 580. In addition, proximalend portion 590 of shaft 580 may include a bulbous, knob-like portion620 to reduce likelihood of user's 20 hand inadvertently slipping fromshaft 580 as user 20 utilizes first embodiment handle 220 forexercising. Moreover, shaft 580 may have a textured outer surface (notshown), if desired, for facilitating gripping of shaft 580 by user 20 asuser 20 utilizes first embodiment handle 220 for exercising.

Referring to FIG. 14, there is shown a second embodiment handle 630which can be utilized by user 20 who may prefer exercising with asimulated baseball bat. In this regard, second embodiment handle 630 isconfigured as a lower portion of a truncated baseball bat and has aproximal end portion 640 and a distal end portion 650. Attached todistal end portion 650 is previously mentioned hook member 230, whichdefines eyelet 630 through which proximal end portion 200 of tether 190passes and is tied into knot 615. In addition, proximal end portion 640of second embodiment handle 630 includes an outwardly projecting flange650 to reduce likelihood of user's 20 hand inadvertently slipping fromsecond embodiment handle 630 as user 20 utilizes second embodimenthandle 630 for exercising.

Referring to FIG. 15, there is shown a third embodiment handle 660 whichcan be utilized by user 20, who may prefer exercising with a simulatedtennis racquet. In this regard, third embodiment handle 660 isconfigured as a lower portion of a truncated tennis racquet handle andhas a proximal end portion 670 and a distal end portion 680. Attached todistal end portion 680 is previously mentioned hook member 230, whichdefines eyelet 630 through which proximal end portion 200 of tether 190passes and is tied into knot 615. In addition, proximal end portion 670of third embodiment handle 660 includes an outwardly projecting flange690 to reduce likelihood of user's 20 hand inadvertently slipping fromthird embodiment handle 660 as user 20 utilizes third embodiment handle630 for exercising.

Referring to FIG. 16, there is shown a fourth embodiment handle 700which can be utilized by user 20, who may prefer exercising with asimulated hockey stick. In this regard, fourth embodiment handle 700 isconfigured as a lower portion of a truncated hockey stick handle and hasa proximal end portion 710 and a distal end portion 720. Attached todistal end portion 720 is previously mentioned hook member 230, whichdefines eyelet 630 through which proximal end portion 200 of tether 190passes and is tied into knot 615. In addition, proximal end portion 710of fourth embodiment handle 700 includes an outwardly projecting flange730 to reduce likelihood of user's 20 hand inadvertently slipping fromfourth embodiment handle 700 as user 20 utilizes fourth embodimenthandle 700 for exercising.

Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, there is shown a fifth embodiment handle740 having a proximal end portion 750 and a distal end portion 760.Distal end portion 760 has a smooth, transverse bore 765 extendingtherethrough for reasons disclosed presently. Attached to distal endportion 760 is a swivable or pivotable yoke, generally referred to as770. The yoke 770 comprises a first bolt 780 that extends through bore765 and further comprises a beam member 790 having arms 795 a and 795 bconnected to opposing ends of first bolt 780. A bridge member 800 isspaced-apart from and extends over beam member 790 and is connected tobeam member 790 by means of a second bolt 810. In this manner, an eyelet820 is defined between beam member 790 and bridge member 800, such thatproximal end portion 200 of tether 190 can pass through eyelet 820 andtied into a knot 825. In addition, proximal end portion 750 of fifthembodiment handle 740 includes a bulbous, knob-like portion 830 toreduce likelihood of user's 20 hand inadvertently slipping from fifthembodiment handle 740 as user 20 utilizes fifth embodiment handle 740for exercising. Moreover, fifth embodiment handle 740 may have atextured outer surface (not shown), if desired, for facilitatinggripping of fifth embodiment handle 740 by user 20 as user 20 utilizesfifth embodiment handle 740 for exercising.

Referring to FIG. 19, there is shown a sixth embodiment handle 835 thatis a simulated baseball. Sixth embodiment handle 835 is effective withoverhead exercise activities requiring arm rotation for throwers andpitchers.

Referring to FIG. 19A, there is shown a seventh embodiment handle,generally referred to as 837, that is a strap device. Seventh embodimenthandle 837 is effective for exercising a diversity of muscle groups,such as neck, shoulder, arm, ankle, leg, scapula and knee muscle groups.Seventh embodiment handle 837 includes an elongate grip 838 a that mayhave a plurality of integrally formed surface ridges or ribs 838 bspaced along the length of elongate grip 838 a, so that grip 838 a maybe more easily gripped by the hand of user 20 as user 20 exercises. Astrap 838 c extends through a central bore (not shown) of grip 838 a,the strap 838 c having a first end portion 838 d and a second endportion 838 e. First end portion 838 d and second end portion 838 e arejoined by a clip 838 f for holding first end portion 838 d and secondend portion 838 e together. Hook member 230 is also connected to clip838 f. Proximal end portion 200 of tether 190 can pass through eyelet610 and knotted in the manner described hereinabove, in order to connecttether 190 to seventh embodiment handle 837.

Referring to FIG. 19B, there is shown an eighth embodiment handle,generally referred to as 839, that is an alternative strap device.Eighth embodiment handle 839 is effective for exercising the previouslymentioned diversity of muscle groups, such as the neck, shoulder, arm,ankle, leg, scapula and knee muscle groups. Eighth embodiment handle 839is substantially similar to seventh embodiment handle 837, except grip838 a (see FIG. 19A) is absent. Rather, eighth embodiment handle 839comprises a strap portion 839 a, which may be a “Velcro®brand fastener”hook-and-loop material, configured to wrap about the head, neck, scapulaor ankle of the user for exercising the afore-mentioned muscle groups.The mark “Velcro®brand fastener” is a registered trademark of VelcroIndustries B.V. located in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. In addition,strap portion 839 a of eighth embodiment handle 839 is flexible forconforming to various sizes of a user's neck, shoulder, arm, ankle, leg,scapula and knee muscle groups. Eighth embodiment handle 839 serves amulti-purpose function in the sense that eighth embodiment handle 839can be used to exercise multiple portions of the body of the user, suchas the various muscle groups mentioned hereinabove.

In FIG. 20, a container, such as a storage bag or tote bag 840, definesan inner volume 850 therein for receiving any or all of O-rings clips150/160/420, pulleys 170/180, tether 190, handles 220/630/660/700/740and weight bag 240. The weight bag 240 may have had the weights emptiedtherefrom to enable weight bag 240 being folded and placed in tote bag840. Alternatively, tote bag 840 may serve as a weight bag, as well as astorage bag. Tote bag 840 defines an opening 860 for allowing access toinner volume 850. Opening 860 may be opened and closed by any suitablemeans, such as by a zipper 870. Tote bag 840 may be made from a pliablematerial, such as nylon, cloth or the like. Alternatively, tote bag 840may be in the form of a metal case (not shown), made from a light weightmetal that, for example, might be thin gauge aluminum.

Turning now to FIG. 21, there is shown a second embodiment in-field kitand system for self-directed therapeutic pulley-based musclerehabilitation methods, generally referred to as 880 (hereinafterreferred to as “second embodiment kit 880”), that may be used in anindoor environment (e.g., at home, at a hotel) or at an athletic field.When used in an indoor environment, second embodiment kit 880 isdeployable on a conventional door 890 that may be hinged to an uprightwall 900 by means of a hinged connection 910. Door 890 has a first sideedge portion 920 a, a second side edge portion 920 b, a top edge portion920 c, a front surface 925 and a rear surface (not shown). Aconventional upper door frame portion 927 is disposed opposite top edgeportion 920 c of door 890, such that a gap 929 is defined therebetween.Conventional door 890, wall 900, hinged connection 910 and upper doorframe portion 927 form no part of the present invention. Previouslymentioned first pulley 170 is removably suspended from first side edgeportion by means of a flexible member, such as a flexible ribbon 930that may be made of a thin gauge cloth. More specifically, ribbon 930may be heavy duty double stitched webbing and has a distal attachmentmade of a plastic polymer material. Ribbon 930 is configured such thatthe distal attachment is securely wedged between first side edge portion920 a and wall 900 when door 890 is closed. By way of example only, andnot by way of limitation, the distal attachment may be a commerciallyavailable component, such as a TRIGLIDE™ metal or plastic buckle orfastener that allows for strap or webbing adjustments, such as may beavailable from ITW Nexus, Incorporated located in Des Plaines, Ill.U.S.A.

Referring again to FIG. 21, a bracket assembly, generally referred to as940, is removably mounted on top edge portion 920 c of door 890 forremovably suspending previously mentioned second pulley 180 therefrom.Bracket assembly 940, which may be steel for durability, is configuredto fit virtually any thickness of door 890. In this regard, bracketassembly 940 is adjustable to fit most home doors and industrial sizedoors. This ability to adjust bracket assembly 940 to fit both sizedoors adds to the useable applications because bracket assembly 940 canfit on doors at home as well as most businesses and hotel rooms. In thisregard, bracket assembly 940 comprises a vertical first leg 950 a, avertical second leg 950 b disposed parallel to and opposite first leg950 a and a thin horizontal intermediate plate 950 c interconnectingfirst leg 950 a and second leg 950 b. When bracket assembly 940 isdeployed on top edge portion 920 c of door 890, first leg 950 a isdisposed opposite front surface 925, second leg 950 b is disposed on therear surface of door 890 and thin intermediate plate 950 c spans topedge portion 920 c of door 890. Thus, thin intermediate plate 950 c isthin enough to be disposed in gap 929. An externally threaded pin 960 isthreadably received through an internally threaded bore (not shown)formed transversely through first leg 950 a. Pin 960 includes aprotective felt-padded or rubber-padded end portion 970 for abuttingagainst front surface 925 of door 890. End portion 970 is felt-padded orrubber-padded to avoid damage or marring of front surface 925 whilebracket assembly 940 is mounted on door 890. In this manner, bracketassembly 940 is removably secured to door 890 without damaging ormarring door 890.

Referring to FIG. 21A, an alternative bracket assembly 965 need notinclude pin 960 and the bore associated therewith. Alternative bracketassembly 965 is flexible enough, as illustrated by dotted lines in thefigure, to adjustably fit various thicknesses or sizes of door 890 andhas a felt-padded or rubber padded layer 965 a on an underside thereoffor preventing damage or marring of door 890. Alternative bracketassembly 965 a defines a through bore 965 b for attachment of either oneof pulleys 170/180. Tether 190 can then span pulleys 170/180. Handle 220and incremental weights 250 can then be connected to tether 190 and usedto perform the previously mentioned exercise routines. A multipurposestrap may be coupled to an end portion of tether 190, if desired. Inthis regard, the previously mentioned eighth embodiment handle 839having strap portion 839 a wraps about a portion of the head, leg, ankleor other body part of the user for exercising that body part of theuser.

Returning to FIG. 21, use and configuration of second embodiment kit 880will now be described in greater detail. In this regard, secondembodiment kit 880 enables an athlete to make a transition from a clinicrehabilitation environment to an indoor or in-field environment forcontinuing his or her rehabilitation exercise routine. Second embodimentkit 880 is constructed to provide such an athlete with a constantresistance routine, where a constant resistance level may not only beincrementally varied, but may also be adjusted over a wide and diverserange of exercise positions for exercising a given muscle group of theathlete. Although second embodiment kit 880 is constructed to enable anathlete to make a transition from a clinic rehabilitation environment toan indoor or in-field environment for continuing his or herrehabilitation exercise routine, it should be understood by thoseskilled in the art, that second embodiment kit 880 may also be utilizedby an accident victim making a rehabilitation transition from a clinicalsetting to an indoor (e.g., home) setting. When used by an athlete in anin-field environment, second embodiment kit 880 can be supported by anysuitable stationary structure, such as previously mentioned wire fence30. Therefore, use of second embodiment kit 880 obviates the need tohave a physical therapist present at all times during rehabilitation. Inaddition, second embodiment kit 880 is a pulley-based system thatenables use of second embodiment kit 880 at home or in-field.

Considering now second embodiment kit 880 in greater detail withreference to FIG. 21, second embodiment kit 880, which functions as atensioning arrangement, may be mounted either to door 890 for exercisingindoors, or to previously mentioned wire fence 30 for exercisingoutdoors. Second embodiment kit 880 includes handle 220 that serves as abody specific exercise attachment device and that is adapted tofacilitate the exercise of a given muscle group of the athlete.

Second embodiment kit 880, as noted hereinabove, and as best seen inFIG. 21, is adapted to be mounted to a variety of different types ofdoor jambs of various door jamb widths at a fixed apex position and at aplurality of user selected exercise positions ranging from at or aboutanother adjacent apex position at a floor level position and in betweento provide the user with a diversity of exercise positions forfacilitating the exercise and rehabilitation of a given muscle group ofthe user, such as an athlete.

Again, with reference to the body specific exercise attachment devicesor handles 220/630/660/700/740/835/837, the body specific exerciseattachment devices or handles 220/630/660/700/740/835/837 are examplesof a variety of different forms and structures for the specific exerciseattachment devices. The specific form and structure of the exerciseattachment device is selected based upon the specific muscle group ofthe athlete that must be strengthened or rehabilitated. In this regard,the body specific exercise attachment device is selected from a group ofbody specific exercise attachment devices, including but not limited tofirst embodiment handle 220, second embodiment handle 630 (i.e., lowerportion of a truncated baseball bat), third embodiment handle 660 (i.e.,lower portion of a truncated tennis racquet), fourth embodiment handle700 (i.e., lower portion of a truncated hockey stick), fifth embodimenthandle 740 (i.e., handle with pivotable yoke), sixth embodiment handle835 (i.e., baseball), and seventh embodiment handle 837 (i.e., strapdevice). Each of these body specific exercise attachment devices weredescribed in detail hereinabove. Thus, based on the descriptionhereinabove, first embodiment handle 220 is for lifting and pullingconstant weights ranging from about 200 grams (i.e., about 0.441 pounds)to about 9.072 kilograms (i.e., about 20 pounds); second embodimenthandle 630 is utilized for exercising the muscle groups associated withswinging a club-like device, such as a baseball bat, a golf club, andthe like; third embodiment handle 660 is utilized for exercising musclesassociated with playing tennis; fourth embodiment handle 700 is utilizedfor exercising muscles associated with playing hockey; fifth embodimenthandle 740 is utilized for exercising muscles requiring a pivotableyoke; sixth embodiment handle 835 is utilized for exercising the musclegroups associated with throwing a ball; and the seventh embodimenthandle 837 is utilized for exercising a diversity of muscle groups, suchas a neck muscle group, a shoulder muscle group, an arm muscle group, anankle muscle group, a leg muscle group, and a knee muscle group, aspreviously mentioned.

Therefore, based on the description hereinabove, and with reference toFIGS. 1 and 21, first embodiment kit 10 is configured as an outdoortensioning arrangement and second embodiment kit 880 is configured as anindoor tensioning arrangement or an outdoor tensioning arrangement. Inthis regard, second embodiment kit 880 is adapted to be mounted to adoor jamb, such as first edge portion 920 a that serves as a door jamb,while the outdoor tensioning arrangement or first embodiment kit 10 isadapted to be mounted to previously mentioned wire fence 30, such as onewould find anchored in soil 35 on an athletic field. Regardless of thetype of mounting that is selected for the tensioning arrangement, firstembodiment kit 10 and second embodiment kit 880 may both be configuredto provide a plurality of different mounting configurations ranging froman apex position relative to the first edge portion 920 a that serves asthe door jamb or wire fence 30, to a floor or ground position, with aplurality of other mounting positions therebetween selected based uponhow the athlete desires to exercise a given muscle group.

With reference to FIG. 21, second embodiment kit 880 includes eitherincremental weights 250 or weight bag 240 having a sufficient volume tohold a variety of weights ranging between about 200 grams 200 grams(i.e., about 0.441 pounds) and about 9.072 kilograms (i.e., about 20pounds). Tether 190 is adapted for attachment at one of its ends to theweight bag 240, weights 250 and to a selected one of the body specificexercise attachment devices or handles 220/630/660/700/740/835/837 atanother one of its ends depending upon the type of exercise to beperformed. The indoor tensioning arrangement or second embodiment kit880 further includes previously mentioned bracket assembly 940, firstpulley 170 positioned on door 890, and second pulley 180 positioned ondoor 890 at an apex position above first pulley 170. Both firstembodiment bracket assembly 940 and second embodiment bracket assembly965 are provided with a protective lining or layer, such as felt-paddedor rubber, so that the bracket assembly does not damage or mar door 890.Second embodiment bracket assembly 965 is constructed of a sufficientlypliable material so that second embodiment bracket assembly 965 may beconfigured to snugly grip a wide door jamb or a narrow door jamb. Inthis regard, second embodiment bracket assembly 965 may be configured tobe utilized with a door jamb having a maximum width of 1.5 inches to aminimum width of 3.5 millimeters.

Referring to FIGS. 218 and 21C, there is shown a tensioner 972 foradjustably tensioning tether 190. Tensioner 972 defines a plurality ofthrough-holes 972 a, such as three through-holes 972 a, for receiving anend portion of tether 190. The end portion of tether 190 is interleavedthrough through-holes 972 a to a suitable extent in order to achieve thedesired tension in tether 190 and tied into a knot 972 b to retain theend portion of tether 190 in tensioner 972 and to retain tether 190 atthe desired tension.

Thus, it may be appreciated that neither first embodiment kit 10 norsecond embodiment kit 880 requires use of gym facilities. It may also beappreciated that first embodiment kit 10 and second embodiment kit 880are convenient to use because these embodiments require less space inwhich to use them compared to some conventional exercise devices. Inaddition, the weights are readily adjustable so that the weights can bereduced to a minimum amount, such as 200 grams, if desired. In addition,if desired, tether 190 need not be elastic material in order to reducethe risk that tether 190 might become a weak link. Preferably, tether190 is inelastic for the reasons mentioned hereinabove. Further, firstembodiment kit 10 and second embodiment kit 880 offer accurate dosage ofexercise in order to achieve functional qualities, such asvascularization, detonification, coordination, endurance, strength andpower. First embodiment kit 10 and second embodiment kit 880 areversatile to accommodate different resistances to meet the specificneeds of a relatively full range of exercise routines. Further, use offirst embodiment kit 10 and second embodiment kit 880 obviates a need tohave a physical therapist present at all times during rehabilitation. Inaddition, first embodiment kit 10 and second embodiment kit 880 are eacha pulley-based system that enables use of first embodiment kit 10 andsecond embodiment kit 880 at home or in-field.

Illustrative Methods

An illustrative method associated with an exemplary embodiment for amethod of assembling an in-field kit and system for self-directedtherapeutic pulley-based muscle rehabilitation methods will now bedescribed.

Referring to FIG. 22, an illustrative method 980 that is provided forassembling an exercise kit starts at a block 990. At a block 1000, aplurality of ring-shaped fasteners adapted to be coupled to respectiveones of a plurality of preselected locations on a stationary structureare provided. At a block 1010, a plurality of tensioning supportsadapted to be coupled to respective ones of the plurality of ring-shapedfasteners are provided. At a block 1020, a tether adapted to engage thetensioning supports, the tether having a proximal end portion and adistal end portion is provided. At a block 1030, a handle adapted to becoupled to the proximal end portion of the tether is provided. Themethod stops at a block 1040.

Other modifications and implementations will occur to those skilled inthe art without departing from the spirit and the scope of the inventionas claimed. For example, the exercise kit and system may be used with avariety of stationary structures in addition to fences and doors. Forexample, the exercise kit and system may be used with walkway railings.Accordingly, the description hereinabove is not intended to limit theinvention, except as indicated in the following claims.

Therefore, provided herein are an in-field kit and system forself-directed therapeutic pulley-based muscle rehabilitation methods andmethod of assembling the in-field kit and system.

What is claimed is:
 1. An in-field kit for self-directed therapeuticpulley-based muscle rehabilitation methods, comprising: a plurality ofring-shaped fasteners adapted to be coupled to respective ones of aplurality of preselected locations on a stationary structure; aplurality of pulleys adapted to be coupled to respective ones of saidplurality of ring-shaped fasteners; a tether adapted to engage saidpulleys, said tether having a proximal end portion and a distal endportion; and a handle adapted to be coupled to the proximal end portionof said tether for placing said tether in tension, so that an injuredmuscle group of a user is rehabilitated as said tether is placed intension.
 2. The in-field kit of claim 1, wherein at least one of aidplurality of ring-shaped fasteners comprises an O-ring clip.
 3. Thein-field kit of claim 2, wherein said O-ring clip comprises ascrew-threaded latch.
 4. The in-field kit of claim 2, wherein saidO-ring clip comprises a slideable latch.
 5. The in-field kit of claim 1,wherein the distal end portion of said tether is adapted to be coupledto a weight.
 6. The in-field kit of claim 1, further comprising acontainer adapted to contain at least one of said plurality ofring-shaped fasteners, said plurality of pulleys, said tether and saidhandle.
 7. The in-field kit of claim 1, wherein said tether isinelastic.
 8. An in-field kit for self-directed therapeutic pulley-basedmuscle rehabilitation methods, comprising: a plurality of O-ring clipsadapted to be connected to respective ones of a plurality of preselectedlocations on a stationary structure, each of said plurality of O-ringclips being openable and closeable for selectively positioning each ofsaid plurality of O-ring clips on the stationary structure; a pluralityof pulleys adapted to be connected to respective ones of said pluralityof O-ring clips; a flexible tether adapted to slidably engage saidplurality of pulleys, said tether having a proximal end portion and adistal end portion, the distal end portion being adapted to connect to aweight; and a handle adapted to be connected to the proximal end portionof said tether for placing said tether in tension, so that an injuredmuscle group of a user is rehabilitated as said tether is placed intension.
 9. The in-field kit of claim 8, wherein each of said pluralityof O-ring clips comprises a screw-threaded latch for opening and closingeach of said plurality of said O-ring clips.
 10. The in-field kit ofclaim 8, wherein each of said plurality of O-ring clips comprises aslidable latch for opening and closing each of said plurality of saidO-ring clips.
 11. The in-field kit of claim 8, wherein the distal endportion of said ether is adapted to be connected to a weight.
 12. Thein-field kit of claim 8, further comprising a tote bag sized to containsaid plurality of O-ring clips, said plurality of pulleys, said tetherand said handle.
 13. The in-field kit of claim 8, wherein said tether isinelastic.
 14. An in-field kit for self-directed therapeuticpulley-based muscle rehabilitation methods, comprising: a plurality ofsplit O-ring clips defining a gap therein adapted to be opened andclosed for connecting each of said plurality of O-ring clips torespective ones of a plurality of preselected locations on a stationarystructure, each of said plurality of O-ring clips including a latchmechanism associated with the gap for opening and closing the gap; aplurality of friction-free pulleys adapted to be connected to respectiveones of said plurality of O-ring clips; a flexible tether adapted toslidably engageably span said plurality of pulleys, said tether having aproximal end portion and a distal end portion; a handle adapted to beconnected to the proximal end portion of said tether, said handleincluding a hook member for engaging the proximal end portion of saidtether, said handle being adapted for placing said tether in tension, sothat an injured muscle group of a user is rehabilitated as said tetheris placed in tension; and a tote bag sized to contain said plurality ofO-ring clips, said plurality of pulleys, said tether and said handle.15. The in-field kit of claim 14, wherein said latch mechanism comprisesa screw threaded latch.
 16. The in-field kit of claim 14, wherein saidlatch mechanism comprises a slidable latch.
 17. The in-field kit ofclaim 14, wherein the distal end portion of said tether is adapted to beconnected to a weight.
 18. The in-field kit of claim 14, wherein saidtether is inelastic.
 19. An in-field system for self-directedtherapeutic pulley-based muscle rehabilitation methods, comprising: aplurality of ring-shaped fasteners adapted to be coupled to respectiveones of a plurality of preselected locations on a stationary structure;a plurality of pulleys adapted to be coupled to respective ones of aidplurality of ring-shaped fasteners; a tether adapted to engage saidpulleys, said tether having a proximal end portion and a distal endportion; and a handle adapted to be coupled to the proximal end portionof said tether for placing said tether in tension, so that an injuredmuscle group of a user is rehabilitated as said tether is placed intension.
 20. The in-field system of claim 19, wherein at least one ofaid plurality of ring-shaped fasteners comprises an O-ring clip.
 21. Thein-field system of claim 20, wherein said O-ring clip comprises ascrew-threaded latch.
 22. The in-field system of claim 19, wherein saidO-ring clip comprises a slidable latch.
 23. The in-field system of claim19, wherein the distal end portion of said tether is adapted to becoupled to a weight.
 24. The in-field system of claim 19, furthercomprising a container adapted to contain at least one of said pluralityof ring-shaped fasteners, said plurality of pulleys, said tether andsaid handle.
 25. The in-field system of claim 19, wherein said tether isinelastic.
 26. A method of assembling an in-field kit for self-directedtherapeutic pulley-based muscle rehabilitation methods, comprising:providing a plurality of ring-shaped fasteners adapted to be coupled torespective ones of a plurality of preselected locations on a stationarystructure; providing a plurality of pulleys adapted to be coupled torespective ones of the plurality of ring-shaped fasteners; providing atether adapted to engage the tensioning supports, the tether having aproximal end portion and a distal end portion; and providing a handleadapted to be coupled to the proximal end portion of the tether forplacing the tether in tension, so that an injured muscle group of a useris rehabilitated as the tether is placed in tension.
 27. The method ofclaim 26, wherein providing a plurality of ring-shaped fastenerscomprises providing at least one ring-shaped fastener including anO-ring clip.
 28. The method of claim 27, wherein providing at least onering-shaped fastener including an O-ring clip comprises providing ascrew-threaded latch.
 29. The method of claim 27, wherein providing atleast one ring-shaped fastener including an O-ring clip comprisesproviding a slidable latch.
 30. The method of claim 26, whereinproviding a tether comprises providing a tether having a distal endportion adapted to be coupled to a weight.
 31. The method claim 26,further comprising providing a container adapted to contain at least oneof the plurality of ring-shaped fasteners, the plurality of pulleys, thetether and the handle.
 32. The method of claim 26, wherein providing atether comprises providing an inelastic tether.
 33. An in-field kit forself-directed therapeutic pulley-based muscle rehabilitation methods,comprising: a bracket adapted to be mounted on a door; a pulley adaptedto be coupled to said bracket; a tether adapted to engage said pulley,said tether having a proximal end portion and a distal end portion; anda handle adapted to be coupled to the proximal end portion of saidtether for placing said tether in tension, so that an injured musclegroup of a user is rehabilitated as said tether is placed in tension.34. The in-field kit of claim 33, wherein the distal end portion of saidtether is adapted to be coupled to a weight.
 35. The in-field kit ofclaim 33, further comprising a container adapted to contain at least oneof said plurality of ring-shaped fasteners, said plurality of pulleys,said tether and said handle.
 36. The in-field kit of claim 33, whereinsaid tether is an inelastic tether.